McIntosh MC402

I too, owned the Mac 402 for several years. It was a decent serviceable performer ( paired with a SS Mac pre) during that time. But quite by accident I was in need of smaller more compact amplification. I tried out a Rogue Pharaoh class D integrated hybrid in hope of it being comparable sonically to the Mac. What really floored me was the Rogue wasn't just a little better, but a whole LOT better. I never looked back and at one third the price of the Mac gear, it was a no-brainer to me. IMHO

Please see these 2 web sites for used Mcintosh pricing:

http://www.audioclassics.com/detail?detail=MC402&nav=cat

http://www.mcintoshaudio.com/

i owned the MA6900 Integrated amplifier
and did not like it.  For me, the music was dark, closed in not natural and I sold it. 

If possible, I suggest you audition both the MC402 and MC452 Amps before you buy.  

I also suggest you look st Ayre Acoustics power amplifiers (or integrated) before making your decision.  You might also review the Class D amplifier posts on Audiogon. 

The MC 402 is just a classic amp, it sounds natural in a tube way, bass slam when it is on the recordings, great imaging, and placement. It threads the needle on solid-state and better tube amps. My speakers can go below 30Hz and the impact when on the recording can be felt. In the end, it is system matching and of course preamp matching. I used many preamps with my 402, from ARC reference, Luxman C-800F, and Mark Levinson 326S, McIntosh own C-200 and C2300 tube pre. But I can say using all the preamps, it has never ever sounded, slow, bloated, or bright. It is fact is perfectly in balance. It does not run hot, it is very reliable and worth every penny new or on the used market. It is one of the most musical amps I’ve owned, and they have been tube and solid-state, as a side, I never thought I own a McIntosh amp, so glad I heard one by luck and all my prejudice went wayside, this is not a doctor or lawyer type of amp, it just an excellent amp for the reproduction of what is feed to it that brings musical enjoyment. A McIntosh Classic and perhaps the last of that sonic signature. 

Excellent description phillyb.  

I owned both...the mc402 for about a year i think and tried the 452 thinking it would be better...imo both amps sucked..slow flabby bottom end and lacking that sparkle on top..McIntosh is midfi and kiving off its name only....i moved on to a Pass 250.5 and found it superior in every way..speakers used were a variery..dynaudio C4..Raidho c3...Vivid